DAY 0 -- THE GROUP ARRIVES

On a summer like day in Denver, students and their families met Mrs. Dominguez and Mr. Paez at our home for the next week -- the Colorado Vincentian Volunteers (CVV) house. Suitcases and duffel bags littered the courtyard as students took in the sight of the CVV house. Parents hugged their children as younger siblings clung to their legs. Nervous chatter turned into exciting laughter. Our week of community building, service to others, and reflection had begun.

First things first: room assignments. Students received their sleeping arrangements and settled into their rooms for the week.  Top bunks were quickly claimed, and fans were strategically placed to circulate cool air in the evening. After room assignments, we all received a tour of the CVV house and general rules were established. Food and snacks (thank you parents!) were organized on the counter space/refrigerator and attention soon turned to dinner. As students unpacked their bags, Mrs. Dominguez and a small group started on dinner: chicken enchiladas, black beans, and rice. The smell of food quickly filled the kitchen, and we all settled in for our first reflection of the week.

Tonight's reflection focused on expectations and goals for our Immersion. We discussed how to not only be present in this experience but also committed to those we will serve. Reflection ended with a prayer and students were off to the kitchen for dinner.  After bringing groceries back to the house, the group cooking that night began making chicken fried rice. During dinner, we talked about what was in store for the week -- the many different organizations we would work with, the long days we would commit to, and the time we would spend with one another. We discussed what we're looking forward to and what we're nervous about. Seconds were had and dessert was up for grabs: diced mango! While a small group cleaned the kitchen, others set their sights on the evening's rest and relaxation plans. As we watch a movie together, it is clear the group is eager for our first full day tomorrow!